Leonard to return against Hornets

Second-year small forward Kawhi Leonard said he will return for tonight’s home game against New Orleans.

Leonard had missed the past 18 games with quadriceps tendinitis. It will mark the first time since the Spurs’ home loss to New York on Nov. 15 that they’ve had a full roster.

“I’m feeling good, ready for tonight’s game,” Leonard said. “It’s been a while since I played. I’m happy. I love the game of basketball. It was a long process to get back to where I’m at. I’m just happy to get on the floor and enjoy the game.”

Leonard said he will likely come off the bench. He said he was not notified of any specific minute allocation. Leonard put his physical condition at around 90 percent.

Leonard is averaging 10.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game. He had 19 points and five steals against the Hornets in the season-opener on Oct. 31.